All-In-One computer systems running Ubuntu?

[Bob Blum]

 Not sure where the idea of one failed component requiring full replacement came about.  Parts such as RAM, the hard drive, and other internal components are less accessible than in a standard desktop computer, but the back usually comes off easily and the parts can be replaced.  Nevertheless, the more difficult access and tighter tolerances will result in a more expensive repair - and the unit will be much heavier to transport to a repair shop.  Of course, failure of the display panel would undoubtedly require a more expensive repair than on a laptop because of the larger surface area and pixel count.  Overall performance might be a consideration in the decision to purchase an all-in-one:  the thin topography means that the unit cannot dissipate heat efficiently, so the internal components will generally be less powerful to prevent thermal damage or excessive throttling of the CPU.  Also, because of the construction and thermal considerations, all-in-ones tend to cost substantially more than a desktop computer of comparable specs.  Nevertheless, the average senior user is not doing the kinds of intensive tasks that would require higher-end specs (e.g., video editing, cad/cam, photoshop-level image editing, etc.).  An all-in-one might be perfect for an older person.  Another option might be a larger laptop, 17.3 inches, if the individual's visual acuity permits.  As far as the operating system, an older individual who has limited computer experience might have a more shallow learning curve with Linux Mint (with the Cinnamon desktop environment) rather than Ubuntu.  The paradigm is closer to that of Windows computers with which they might be more familiar.
Just my thoughts on the topic, since for some reason I was included in the message traffic.  Have no intention of engaging in a discussion of which is nicer:  desktops, laptops, or all-in-ones.
   Bob Blum

    On Monday, May 17, 2021, 6:32:18 PM EDT, Wes Westhaver <wes at westhaver.com> wrote:  
 
 Hi Ron,

I considered the Raspberry Pi 400 but it appears that it doesn't have a 
standard 1/8" audio out to drive external speakers. And speakers are 
needed for Zoom sessions. Also, there isn't a version of the Zoom 
application that runs on the Raspberry Pi. Also, a separate webcam would 
be needed which adds more loose wires to deal with.

An All-In-One still seems to be the best choice since it has the 
speakers, webcam, and microphone built-in. The only external parts are 
the keyboard and mouse. This keeps the footprint small and the wiring 
clutter to a minimum.

I agree that a failure of a component in an All-In-One usually means 
replacing the entire system but as long as it works it makes for a very 
neat and compact system which is important in this case as the user is 
an 84 year old woman who just wants a usable system without complications.

So far I haven't found anything on the internet about which All-In-One's 
might be compatible with Ubuntu. But I'm still hoping to come up with 
something.

-Wes

PS. I would like to get my hands on a Raspberry Pi 400 just for fun. It 
looks like a neat unit.


On 5/17/21 3:40 PM, Ron Swift wrote:
> Wes, you may want to look at the Raspberry Pi400, https://www.raspberrypi.org/products/raspberry-pi-400/
> It is a compact system built in to a keyboard design that you can connect to the monitor.
> I have not worked with other all in one designs but my concern would be that if one component breaks than it would be difficult to swap it out.
> Thanks
>
> Ron Swift
> President
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> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Wes Westhaver" <wes at westhaver.com>
> To: "Ubuntu Maryland Loco Team" <ubuntu-us-md at lists.ubuntu.com>
> Sent: Monday, May 17, 2021 3:22:00 PM
> Subject: All-In-One computer systems running Ubuntu?
>
> Hello,
>
> I'd like to know if anyone has experience with All-In-One computers
> running Ubuntu?
>
> I have an elderly relative who lives quite a distance from me and I want
> to provide an All-In-One computer that has a fairly large screen,
> built-in speakers, camera etc. that they can use for web browsing,
> zooming, etc. Their needs aren't very demanding and the simplicity and
> ease of setup makes an All-In-One seem like a good fit for them.
>
> Running Windows is an option but I would really prefer running Ubuntu.
>
> Anyone have experience with this kind of configuration? Any recommendations?
>
> -Wes
>
>
>

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